TRAITS podcast: Building Higher Performing Organizations

S2 Ep 5 | Building to Last: The Science Behind Leadership with DeWayne Fliss

TRAITS — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:45:55 -0400

https://youtu.be/sNrdH3s06-Q DeWayne shares how decades of experience shaped the science behind leadership and why strategy, people, and structure must evolve together for organizations to endure.

In the Season 2 of The TRAITS Podcast, host Mark Frentz and DeWayne Fliss, founder of Concord Consulting, bring the story full circle: exploring the science behind leadership and how decades of research and real-world experience shaped the foundations of TRAITS.

After years of helping organizations grow from small teams to multimillion-dollar enterprises, DeWayne noticed a pattern: every successful company reaches a stage where technical skills and intuition aren’t enough. They need structure, strategy, and self-awareness at the leadership level.

This episode dives into how organizations evolve through growth stages and how leaders must adapt from entrepreneurial drive to strategic discipline. DeWayne unpacks the core principles behind TRAITS and the research that revealed that leadership is not art or instinct, it’s a science of human behaviour, motivation, and fit.

Listeners will learn:

✅ When companies need to redefine what “strategic activities” really are.✅ How to recognize the turning point where founders must shift from doing to leading.✅ Why alignment between strategy, structure, and people determines long-term performance.✅ How technology and HR evolve into strategic functions at scale.✅ What “the science behind leadership” looks like in practice.

DeWayne shares examples of companies that outgrew their systems and had to re-engineer their leadership approach, introducing strategic roles like finance, HR, and marketing as organizations approach $50 million and beyond. He explains how the language of leadership shifts from reacting to anticipating and how data, clarity, and self-awareness enable leaders to build organizations that last.

By the end of the episode, listeners see how DeWayne’s engineering precision, behavioural insight, and strategic thinking combined to create TRAITS, the tool that bridges the gap between knowing your people and leading them effectively.

It’s a fitting finale to his series: a blueprint for leaders who want to move from growth to longevity and build organizations designed to endure.

Show Notes:

00:00 – Series recap and DeWayne’s final chapter03:20 – The science behind leadership and organizational growth09:45 – When entrepreneurial instinct stops working16:15 – The shift from tactics to strategy24:00 – Strategic roles and why they appear as companies scale33:50 – Technology and HR as strategic functions42:30 – The data-driven future of leadership49:55 – Closing thoughts: building organizations that endure

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S2 Ep 4 | Cracks in the Foundation: Why Companies Struggle to Scale with DeWayne Fliss

TRAITS — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:50:37 -0500

https://youtu.be/3dG7sfGrPsg DeWayne Fliss explores why companies struggle to scale—and how leaders can fix what’s beneath the surface before growth collapses it.

In Season 2, Episode 4 of The TRAITS Podcast, host Mark Frentz and DeWayne Fliss, founder of Concord Consulting, take a hard look at one of the most common problems growing organizations face: why companies struggle to scale.

Building on his engineering and leadership insights, DeWayne reveals how even the strongest organizations can experience “cracks in the foundation”—early warning signs of misalignment that appear as companies grow. These cracks may begin small, but left unaddressed, they widen until entire systems—and relationships—start to break down.

Drawing from decades of consulting and leadership experience, DeWayne explains that scaling problems rarely come from strategy or market conditions. They come from people, structure, and communication—areas that leaders often overlook when growth is good.

In this episode, Mark and DeWayne discuss:

✅ The three most common reasons why companies struggle to scale—and how to spot them early.✅ Why leadership misalignment creates performance plateaus.✅ How rapid growth can hide systemic issues that resurface later.✅ The importance of redefining roles, responsibilities, and structure as organizations evolve.✅ The moment leaders must shift from managing to mentoring.

DeWayne shares powerful analogies between engineering principles and organizational behaviour. Just as a structure’s integrity depends on its unseen framework, a company’s success depends on its internal alignment—the trust, clarity, and accountability connecting its people.

Listeners will hear stories of real-world clients who faced growth bottlenecks not because of demand, but because their teams and systems weren’t ready to support the next level. DeWayne unpacks how these companies overcame their challenges by strengthening leadership communication, refining accountability systems, and clarifying strategic priorities.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand that companies don’t fail because they grow too fast—they fail because they don’t grow intentionally.

This conversation is essential for leaders, HR professionals, and entrepreneurs who want to prevent performance cracks before they turn into cultural collapses.

Show Notes:

00:00 – Introduction: Revisiting lessons from engineering and leadership03:15 – The first signs of cracks in growing organizations08:40 – Why structure breaks when leadership alignment is missing16:25 – How scaling too fast hides cultural weaknesses25:10 – The importance of redefining leadership roles during growth34:50 – Turning cracks into opportunities for clarity42:00 – The mindset that separates reactive managers from proactive leaders

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S2 Ep 3 | Role Fit in Leadership: Why Great People Fail in the Wrong Roles with Mike Moreau

TRAITS — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:42:18 -0500

https://youtu.be/CQf-I6xHW9Q Why role fit in leadership matters more than experience, effort, or good intentions

Role fit in leadership is one of the most overlooked — and most costly — issues inside organizations. In this episode of the TRAITS Podcast, we explore why capable, hardworking people often fail in roles that simply don’t fit how they’re wired to work.

Host Mark sits down with Mike Moreau, owner of Concord Consulting, to unpack one of the most practical frameworks for understanding performance: performance orientation. Rather than focusing on personality “types” or generic leadership traits, the conversation centers on how two behavioural traits — Assertiveness and Detail Orientation — shape how people naturally approach work, risk, and decision-making

Mike introduces a simple but powerful analogy: foot on the gas vs. foot on the brake. High Assertiveness pushes action and risk; high Detail Orientation slows things down to ensure accuracy and control. When these tendencies combine, they create different performance orientations — Initiators, Facilitators, and Implementers — each essential to organizational success when placed in the right role.

The problem? Organizations often hire and promote based on experience, tenure, or technical skill — not behavioural alignment. The result is familiar: directors micromanaging, managers stuck in the weeds, entrepreneurs frustrated by operational bottlenecks, and high-potential employees disengaging because their role doesn’t match how they naturally contribute.

Using the now-famous ship analogy, Mike explains how organizations need people at every level — from those scanning the horizon to those ensuring the engine runs smoothly. Trouble starts when people are placed too high or too low on the “mast” relative to their natural work orientation

The episode also tackles a hard truth: coaching can’t fix a role mismatch. While development matters, no amount of training will make someone comfortable in work that fundamentally clashes with how they’re wired. Instead, success comes from measuring behaviour, clarifying role expectations, and intentionally aligning people to the level of work where they can excel.

For leaders, HR professionals, and business owners, this episode reframes hiring, promotion, and succession planning. The takeaway is clear: role fit in leadership isn’t about changing people — it’s about placing them where they can perform best.

Show Notes:

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to identify future leaders earlier — without guesswork

What performance orientation really means

Why role fit in leadership matters more than experience

How assertiveness and detail orientation shape work behaviour

Why coaching can’t fix a role mismatch

How misaligned leadership slows organizations down

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S2 Ep 2 | The Human Equation: Leadership Lessons from Engineering with DeWayne Fliss

TRAITS — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:54:59 -0500

https://youtu.be/H9EaCf6VsgI How systems thinking and engineering logic shaped DeWayne Fliss’s leadership philosophy—and the lessons that inspired the next step toward TRAITS.

Leadership Lessons from Engineering: The Human Equation

In Season 2, Episode 2 of The TRAITS Podcast, host Mark Frentz continues the conversation with DeWayne Fliss, founder of Concord Consulting, to explore how an engineer’s approach to solving complex systems evolved into a framework for leading people. This chapter of DeWayne’s journey reveals how leadership lessons from engineering became the building blocks of the TRAITS philosophy.

After years in civil engineering and construction, DeWayne began noticing something his training hadn’t prepared him for: the human side of performance. Projects failed not because of design flaws or budget miscalculations—but because of breakdowns in communication, motivation, and trust. The variables weren’t structural; they were behavioural.

In this episode, DeWayne explains how engineering principles—precision, systems thinking, and process discipline—provided unexpected insight into leadership. He discovered that, just like structures, teams require alignment and balance. A small misalignment at the top—a poorly defined role, a personality clash, or a lack of feedback—could create exponential stress further down the organization.

Together, Mark and DeWayne unpack the lessons that reshaped how he viewed leadership and culture:

✅ How the logic of engineering exposed the emotional realities of leadership.✅ Why human systems fail when leaders underestimate behavioural alignment.✅ The importance of measuring both technical competence and natural tendencies.✅ How feedback and accountability create structural integrity in teams.

DeWayne also shares stories from his time in construction management—moments where deadlines, pressure, and people clashed—and how those experiences revealed a pattern: leaders who understood human behaviour didn’t just complete projects; they built teams that thrived long after. By the end of the episode, listeners will see how leadership lessons from engineering set the stage for the development of TRAITS. It’s a story about bridging two worlds—the precision of data and the unpredictability of people—and finding the common thread that connects both: human design.

Show Notes:

00:00 – Introduction: Building on the foundations of Episode 103:10 – Engineering precision and the human variable08:40 – The first leadership lessons from managing people, not projects15:20 – When structure meets emotion: understanding human systems23:30 – How alignment and clarity prevent performance collapse31:45 – The importance of accountability and honest feedback39:10 – The link between systems design and organizational success46:00 – How these lessons laid the groundwork for TRAITS

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S2 Ep 1 | From Blueprints to Behaviour: The Early Foundations of TRAITS with DeWayne Fliss

TRAITS — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

How one engineer’s search for better performance revealed the early foundations of TRAITS and a new way to understand people at work.

In the Season 2 premiere of The TRAITS Podcast, host Mark Frentz sits down with DeWayne Fliss, founder of Concord Consulting and the visionary mind behind the TRAITS Assessment, to uncover the early foundations of TRAITS—and how an engineer’s fascination with systems evolved into a passion for understanding people.

Long before developing one of today’s most practical tools for leadership and hiring, DeWayne was building something entirely different: bridges, structures, and careers in engineering. But beneath the blueprints and numbers, he began noticing something data couldn’t fully explain—the people. Why did some teams excel while others, with the same technical skill, fell apart? Why did some leaders inspire performance while others created resistance?

That curiosity led DeWayne to study organizational behaviour and psychometrics, discovering how human tendencies, motivation, and self-awareness shaped outcomes far more than technical expertise. Those insights became the early foundations of TRAITS, decades before the tool itself existed.

Throughout this episode, DeWayne and Mark explore how his experiences in engineering laid the groundwork for his people-first philosophy. They discuss:

✅ The turning point that made DeWayne question whether performance is more about personality than process.

✅ Early research on why people stay—or leave—organizations.

✅ Lessons from leading teams under pressure, where success depended on communication and trust.

✅ How curiosity about people evolved into a systematic approach to leadership and performance.

Listeners will hear DeWayne describe how understanding behaviour became his blueprint for success—a way to diagnose team friction, improve leadership alignment, and drive long-term performance. His early work emphasized a timeless truth: people don’t fail because of what they can’t do, but because they’re in roles that don’t fit who they are.

By the end of this episode, it’s clear that the foundation of TRAITS was never built on technology—it was built on human insight. DeWayne’s story reminds leaders that before you can optimize performance, you must first understand people.

Show Notes:

00:00 – Welcome to Season 2 of The TRAITS Podcast

02:15 – DeWayne’s engineering background and the curiosity that changed everything

08:30 – The first sparks: lessons from leadership, teams, and behaviour

14:00 – Why organizational success depends on human fit

22:10 – How early research became the groundwork for TRAITS

32:45 – The shift from process-driven management to people-driven leadership

42:20 – Reflection: what self-awareness means for leaders today

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Episode 26: Transformative Leadership: The Power of Willingness to Change with Bob Outhwaite

TRAITS — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Transformative Power: Leadership Willingness to Change

In this episode of The TRAITS Podcast, host Mark sits down with Bob Outhwaite, a seasoned leader with a career spanning law enforcement, oil and gas, and executive forums for top CEOs. Together, they explore what truly drives leadership willingness to change—and why this single quality often separates good leaders from great ones.

Bob’s leadership journey began in the RCMP, where he learned powerful lessons about resilience, accountability, and second chances. These experiences shaped his belief that while personality is naturally resistant to change, willingness remains the greatest indicator that change is possible. From officers to executives, he’s seen that transformation doesn’t come from pressure—it begins with choice.

The conversation dives deep into how leaders evolve through self-awareness and honest feedback. Bob recalls moments where direct but caring feedback challenged him to reflect, adapt, and grow—illustrating how effective feedback can spark lasting transformation. As he shares, “Willingness to change is the only indicator that change is possible.” For him, vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s a mark of strength and emotional maturity.

Listeners will gain insight into:

Why trust is the foundation of feedback—and how to build it with your team.
How great leaders foster psychological safety, allowing their people to express honest perspectives.
The difference between leaders who only change in crisis and those who evolve through self-reflection.
How to identify who’s truly coachable in hiring and leadership development.
The importance of good counsel—surrounding yourself with people who tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.

Bob also discusses his work with forum groups—spaces for CEOs and executives to connect, share challenges, and receive unfiltered perspective from trusted peers. His story reminds us that leadership is not about knowing it all, but about being open to learn.

Mark closes the episode with reflection questions for listeners:

How vulnerable are you?
How open are you to change?
Who do you trust to give you honest feedback?
How do you handle criticism or challenge?

This episode will resonate with anyone navigating leadership, change management, or personal development. It’s an inspiring reminder that the willingness to change is not just an attitude—it’s a leadership advantage.

Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction to the episode

2:35 – An early career in the RCMP

7:00 – Do people really change?

11:35 – The value of personal development

16:05 – Building trust with direct reports

20:10 – How do successful leaders receive support?

31:10 – A few other good tools

33:00 – Do people generally want honest feedback?

38:55 – What is ‘good counsel’?

44:10 – Bob’s forum groups

Episode Resources & Links Connect with TRAITS:

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Episode 25: Mastering Recruitment: Behavioral Interviewing with Steve Jones

TRAITS — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Why great hires start long before the offer letter

In this episode, recruitment expert Steve Jones dives deep into the costly pitfalls that many organizations face when hiring and shares how Behavioral Interviewing can be a game changer. Steve explains why traditional interviews often miss the real picture—leading to false positives, where candidates seem perfect on paper but don’t deliver, and false negatives, where great talent is overlooked.

He unpacks the importance of crafting clear, outcome-focused job descriptions and aligning organizational design to support hiring success. Steve also reveals who makes a truly great interviewer and why understanding a candidate’s core values and behaviors is more predictive than skills alone.

Whether you’re a hiring manager, HR professional, or business leader, this episode offers practical insights and actionable strategies to transform your recruitment process and build teams that thrive.

Show Notes:

1:30 – Who is Steve Jones?

3:35 – Mistakes during recruitment

8:30 – What is Behavioural Interviewing?

22:05 – Value of a great job description (and proper org design)

37:15 – False positives and false negatives

43:45 – Who makes a great interviewer?

50:25 – What else is Steve Jones up to?

Episode Resources & Links

https://www.stevejonesleadership.com

In-home assisted living

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Episode 24: From Chaos to Clarity: Creating Culture with Rick Hays

TRAITS — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Creating Culture in Organizations: Leadership Lessons from Chaos to Clarity In this episode of the Concord Podcast, host Mark Frentz sits down with Rick Hays to explore one of the most pressing challenges leaders face today: creating culture in organizations. Too often, leaders focus narrowly on processes, profits, or short-term fixes, while overlooking the cultural foundations that drive sustainable growth and employee engagement. Rick opens the conversation by reflecting on lessons learned through his leadership journey, including moments when it felt like “nothing needed improvement.” That mindset, while comfortable, can blind organizations to hidden risks. Through stories of collaboration and transformation at Aircom, Rick describes how a mindset of growth in leadership becomes the catalyst for cultural change. The episode highlights the “three amigos” dynamic that shaped Aircom’s leadership style and reveals why hiring is so critical when shaping culture. As Rick notes, hiring right isn’t about filling today’s gaps but building a resilient organization for tomorrow. Leaders must learn to recognize when they’ve overlooked the “missing leg of a chair” — those unseen weaknesses that eventually destabilize the business. At the core of this conversation is the challenge of creating culture in organizations. Rick argues that culture cannot simply be imposed; it emerges through intentional leadership, consistent communication, and the ability to balance openness, honesty, and uncertainty. For example, employees at Aircom went through significant change, and while it wasn’t always comfortable, the results transformed how people worked together and supported one another. Mark and Rick dive into practical strategies: How to foster growth-oriented leadership mindsets. Why organizational chaos is an opportunity to identify cultural weaknesses. The importance of leaders being transparent while also protecting stability. The role of employee trust in sustaining cultural change. Listeners will also hear powerful reflections on the importance of humility in leadership. Rick emphasizes that leaders who think culture will “just happen” without effort are missing the point. True transformation comes from deliberate action — creating clarity, protecting values, and ensuring everyone in the organization understands their role in shaping the culture. By the end of the episode, one theme is crystal clear: culture is not a side effect of strategy, it is the strategy. Leaders who prioritize creating culture in organizations unlock higher engagement, better performance, and long-term resilience. This episode is a must-listen for executives, HR professionals, and entrepreneurs who want to move their organizations from chaos to clarity. Show Notes: 1:45 Nothing to improve? 8:05 The beginnings of the three amigos 17:05 A mindset of growth in leadership 21:50 Hiring needed to get right 32:40 The missing leg of a chair 43:50 Creating culture 49:50 Openness vs. honesty vs. uncertainty 58:45 The greatest changes with Aircom’s employees Episode Resources & Links ???? Culture is everything. Strengthen your understanding with the blog “The 7 Signs of Disengaged Employees and What You Can Do to Win Them Back,” which emphasizes the importance of clarity in workplace culture. Loved this conversation with Rick? In Episode 007, Aircom President Sean Lavin shares how the leadership foundation Rick helped build is driving real, measurable impact today. Aircom Instrumentation Ltd. Rick Hays Sean Lavin Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 23: Intentional Succession Planning with Roberta MacGillivray

TRAITS — Fri, 30 May 2025 12:12:28 -0400

Why Intentional Succession Planning is Essential for Family Businesses and Long-Term Leadership Success In this episode of the TRAITS Podcast, host Mark Frentz welcomes Roberta MacGillivray, President of BGE, a company rooted in quality air filtration in Western Canada. Together, they dive into the critical topic of intentional succession planning, exploring how organizations—especially family businesses—can prepare for smooth leadership transitions that protect culture, sustain growth, and foster strong leadership pipelines. The episode begins with Roberta’s unique story of growing up in an entrepreneurial household. She shares memories of learning at the kitchen table with her father, whose business insights and leadership style laid the foundation for her own approach to leading and building successors. These experiences bring forward the central theme: succession planning doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intention, strategy, and courage. Roberta highlights the importance of building great successors in family businesses, where personal and professional lives often intertwine. Unlike corporate environments where leadership transitions can follow more structured processes, family-run organizations face added layers of complexity. Relationships, legacy, and emotional investment all influence how leadership handovers unfold. Roberta emphasizes that without intentional succession planning, companies risk losing not only continuity but also the culture and values that make them successful. The discussion underscores the tough conversations leaders must have to ensure long-term stability. Roberta and Mark explore how facing these conversations head-on—rather than avoiding them—ultimately serves the greatest benefit to the business and its people. Leadership transitions done well create clarity, reduce uncertainty, and set both the outgoing and incoming leaders up for success. Another key element of the conversation is culture. Roberta explains how organizational culture can serve as both a guidepost and a risk factor during transitions. Identifying and developing leaders who not only possess technical skills but also embody cultural values is crucial. As she notes, fantastic leaders aren’t just defined by what they do but also by how they align with organizational purpose and people. Listeners also gain insights into the long-term perspective required in succession planning. Roberta stresses that leaders must take an intentional approach to identifying roles and future needs, while also investing in leadership development early. This means recognizing potential, nurturing it, and preparing individuals for the challenges ahead well before the transition point arrives. From her own leadership experience, Roberta demonstrates that succession planning is both a strategic business decision and a deeply human one. It requires blending analysis with empathy, structure with flexibility, and foresight with courage. The episode ends with a return to the theme of entrepreneurial families, where lessons learned at the kitchen table continue to shape leadership approaches and business resilience today. This conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, HR professionals, and leaders seeking to ensure their organizations thrive across generations. By embracing intentional succession planning, businesses can protect their culture, empower their people, and secure their long-term future. Show Notes: 1:10 The origins of BGE and quality air filtration in Western Canada 6:25 At the kitchen table with an entrepreneurial parent 10:10 Building a great successor for a family business 19:20 Intentional succession planning 24:25 Tough conversations for the greatest benefit to the business 30:35 Culture and how to find fantastic leaders 40:20 At the kitchen table as an entrepreneurial parent Episode Resources & Links BGE Indoor Air Quality Solutions Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 22: The Power of Language in Leadership – Driving Culture and Clarity with Susan McGee

TRAITS — Wed, 14 May 2025 22:08:32 -0400

How Language in Leadership Shapes Culture, Influences Others, and Strengthens Organizational Clarity In this episode of the TRAITS Podcast, host Mark Frentz sits down with Susan McGee, a seasoned leader who has spent her career shaping organizations and influencing people through the power of words. The focus keyword—language in leadership—frames the entire conversation, as Susan shares how the way leaders communicate not only affects team morale but also drives organizational culture, clarity, and long-term success. The discussion begins with Susan’s journey into leadership, including her role at Homeward Trust, where she navigated unique challenges in the non-profit space. She highlights how leadership fit is just as critical in non-profits as in corporate environments, reinforcing that no matter the sector, the right leadership approach can make or break success. A central theme of the episode is the importance of language in leadership. Susan explains how the words leaders choose influence both individual behaviour and collective culture. She emphasizes that language must evolve alongside organizations—outdated terms and communication patterns can hold teams back from growth. By using precise, thoughtful language, leaders create clarity and reduce confusion, making it easier for teams to align with organizational goals. The conversation digs into the nuances of influencing others. Susan notes that effective leadership requires balancing persuasion with authenticity. Leaders who understand the subtle power of language can inspire action, build trust, and protect organizational culture during periods of growth. She illustrates this with real-life examples, including how language plays a vital role in systems thinking, overcoming bias, and using analytics effectively. Another key takeaway is Susan’s perspective on authenticity in leadership. She believes that authenticity isn’t just about being transparent but about choosing language that reflects values while guiding others constructively. Language becomes the bridge between what leaders believe and how teams perceive them. Listeners also gain insight into how leaders can foster robust discussions. Susan highlights the importance of creating space for dialogue where different perspectives can coexist, while leaders use language to steer conversations toward productive outcomes. At the same time, she acknowledges that simplicity in communication—though difficult—is often the most effective. By the end of the episode, Susan shares her thoughts on leadership recognition and authenticity, reminding us that the words leaders choose echo far beyond the moment they are spoken. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in organizational culture, communication strategies, and talent optimization. Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or aspiring manager, understanding the role of language in leadership can help you unlock clarity, strengthen culture, and drive sustainable growth. Show Notes: 2:10 Susan’s background 6:05 What is homeward trust? 9:55 The difference great leadership can make (fit is so important) 12:50 Are challenges any different in a not for profit? (again, fit is so important) 15:35 The nuances of influencing others; language matters! 25:25 How did language become so important to Susan? 28:40 Language changes the way we think and needs to be updated 35:15 “Help me help you help me” How do we influence others? 40:10 How can we protect culture in a high growth organization? 43:35 Some tips: Systems, Overcoming bias, Analytics 48:35 Susan’s definition of authenticity 51:50 Some recognitions for Susan Episode Resources & Links Homeward Trust Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 21: T-Shaped Leadership – Unlocking Growth & Resilience with Carmine Militano

TRAITS — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:01:21 -0400

How embracing T-Shaped Leadership can transform resilience, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth in organizations. In this episode of The Business Leadership Podcast, host Mark Frentz sits down with Carmine Militano to explore the transformative power of T-Shaped Leadership in building resilience, driving growth, and navigating complex business challenges. Carmine shares his leadership journey, revealing how diverse experiences—from entering a family business to overcoming industry hurdles—shaped his ability to lead with adaptability and vision. He explains that T-Shaped Leadership isn’t just about deep expertise in one area (the vertical stroke of the "T"), but also about having a broad, cross-functional understanding (the horizontal stroke) that enables leaders to collaborate across disciplines and connect dots others may miss. A core benefit of T-Shaped Leadership is resilience. Carmine describes how diverse experiences and adaptability give leaders the mental flexibility to face setbacks, rethink strategies, and seize new opportunities. Resilient leaders, he says, are not just reactive—they’re proactive, shaping the future rather than waiting for it to happen. The conversation also covers how to identify T-shaped leaders within an organization. Carmine offers practical indicators, such as curiosity beyond one’s own role, the ability to integrate multiple perspectives, and a willingness to engage in “robust discussions” without losing focus on organizational goals. He emphasizes that developing these leaders requires intentional mentorship, opportunities for cross-functional work, and a culture that values both depth and breadth of skills. Soft skills, according to Carmine, are not secondary—they are essential. He explains that leaders who can foster open dialogue, facilitate problem-solving, and drive consensus without diluting vision are better equipped to navigate growth challenges. These interpersonal capabilities are critical for overcoming hurdles like market changes, internal resistance, and the complexity of scaling operations. Another key insight from the episode is the importance of simplicity in leadership. Carmine notes that complexity often leads to confusion and misalignment, whereas clear, simple strategies—especially those grounded in a competitive advantage—empower teams to move forward with confidence. This principle is especially relevant in an era where AI and technological change can disrupt industries overnight. Carmine also reflects on his personal growth, sharing lessons learned about fostering a meritocracy, maintaining authenticity, and becoming a “lightning rod” for positive change. These leadership qualities, he says, are not innate—they’re cultivated through a commitment to learning, self-awareness, and the willingness to take calculated risks. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or someone navigating the challenges of organizational growth, this episode offers actionable insights into developing a T-Shaped Leadership mindset. You’ll walk away with strategies to identify, develop, and leverage leaders who can bridge expertise with collaboration—ensuring your organization thrives in a rapidly changing world. Show Notes: 2:05 - Carmine Militano’s journey in leadership 5:00 - What is a T shaped leader? 9:35 - How does experience help become resilient 11:35 - How do we identify T-shaped leaders? 14:10 - How do we develop T-shaped leaders? 15:05 - Coming into a family company 20:30 - Hurdles for growth 22:35 - Relearning muscle memory 26:55 - The importance of soft skills 29:00 - How to facilitate ‘robust discussions’ 30:25 - Simplicity is HARD! 32:05 - AI and the importance of competitive advantage 39:55 - Some personal questions… and some thoughts on becoming a lightning rod 46:05 - Fostering a meritocracy 47:55 - Some other lessons learned in Carmine’s journey 50:55 - What is proactive sales? Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 20: Hiring the Right People– Part 2: How to Use Behavioural Traits to Build High-Performing Teams with Jason Woodard

TRAITS — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:05:55 -0400

How to eliminate bias, identify the right roles, and use behavioural insights to create long-term team success. In this powerful follow-up conversation, host Mark Frentz and Jason Woodard dive deeper into one of the most overlooked aspects of leadership hiring — using behavioural traits to build high-performing teams. They begin by exposing a common leadership pitfall: positive bias toward your existing team. While well-intentioned, this tendency can blind leaders to performance gaps and development needs. Jason explains how leaders often confuse loyalty and familiarity with readiness for higher responsibility — and why this mistake can stall team growth. The solution? Objective performance tools that measure behavioural traits, potential, and role fit. Jason walks through how to shift your hiring and promotion decisions away from “what someone has done” to “what they are capable of doing.” This reframing helps identify hidden strengths and ensures leaders are positioned in roles where they can truly excel. They explore what happens when people fail to meet expectations — a critical moment that can make or break trust and morale. Jason offers practical advice on setting clear role expectations, supporting underperformers, and deciding when to realign them to a different role. The discussion moves into long-term hiring strategy, including: How long to keep an emerging leader in an entry-level role before promoting them. How to correctly identify organizational needs for future growth. How to map behavioural traits to role demands for sustainable performance. Jason emphasizes that understanding people requires going beyond skills and experience to uncover values, motivations, and natural tendencies. Tools that measure value systems are highlighted as a way to align hires with both the role and the company culture. Finally, they address succession chaos — the confusion and inefficiency that occur when leadership transitions aren’t planned properly. Jason reveals how using behavioural assessments in succession planning reduces uncertainty and ensures leadership continuity. This episode is a must-listen for executives, HR leaders, and entrepreneurs who want to hire, develop, and retain top talent while avoiding costly missteps. Show Notes: 0:50 - How positive biases towards are team hurts them 4:20 - Introduction to objective performance tools and how to use them 8:15 - The value of understanding what someone is capable of rather than what they’ve done 11:50 - When people don’t meet expectations 17:45 - How long do you leave a leader in an entry level position? 23:20 - How do you identify roles and needs correctly for long term hires? 26:25 - Where does all the complexity of a human being fit into all of this? 30:45 - Another tool to check in on value systems 39:40 - The problem with, and solution for, succession chaos Episode Resources & Links Metromont LinkedIn Jason Woodard LinkedIn ✅ Avoid hiring mistakes and build stronger teams! Get TRAITS Certified to master strategic hiring and leadership development: Enroll Now Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 19: Hiring the Right People – Avoid Costly Mistakes & Build Stronger Teams with Jason Woodard

TRAITS — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:27:51 -0400

Hiring the Right People isn’t just about filling a vacancy—it’s about avoiding costly mistakes, reducing turnover, and building a stronger, more resilient team. In this episode of the TRAITS Podcast, Mark sits down with Jason Woodard to explore one of the most pressing challenges in business today: hiring the right people. Drawing from decades of experience, Jason offers hard-earned insights into how organizations can sidestep common pitfalls in the hiring process, align new hires with long-term business goals, and foster sustainable growth. The conversation begins with Jason’s personal journey, highlighting his transition through different roles until he found the right professional fit. His story underscores the importance of aligning both skills and personality with a role—not just for immediate productivity, but for long-term success. A recurring theme is the owner vs. non-owner perspective in companies. Jason explains how these differing viewpoints impact hiring decisions and overall team alignment. He stresses that successful hiring isn’t just about technical ability—it’s about understanding the deeper “wiring” of an individual. While certain behaviours can be adapted for short periods and specific goals, true long-term success comes from finding individuals whose natural tendencies match the role’s demands. Jason also addresses the danger of hiring for the wrong reasons, such as being swayed by a candidate’s charm or overlooking red flags during interviews. He uses the analogy of a “new car smell” to describe how surface appeal can mask deeper performance issues. The key? Implementing a process that uncovers the candidate’s real capabilities and potential before the hire is made. The episode offers practical strategies for future-focused hiring—bringing in people not just for the company’s current needs, but for where the business is headed. Jason’s advice includes preparing interview questions that test adaptability, communication skills, and alignment with company culture. He also shares an invaluable lesson from “form setters” that can transform how organizations evaluate talent. Listeners will gain insight into easing employees into roles where they can thrive long-term, creating clear communication channels, and helping people discover strengths they may not even be aware of. Jason emphasizes the importance of knowing your team members better than they know themselves—and using that knowledge to shape career paths that benefit both the individual and the organization. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for building teams. Whether you’re battling high turnover, struggling to fill critical roles, or looking to take your hiring process to the next level, you’ll come away with actionable takeaways that can save your business time, money, and frustration. Show Notes: 3:15 - The “glamour” of Metromont9:10 - AI and job loss10:45 - Jason’s background and change of roles over time to find the right fit17:30 - The difference in perspectives between owners and non-owners in a company22:15 - Change agents… The more chaos the better?!26:15 - Wiring vs. growth… Adapting behaviour can happen FOR A TIME AND FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE!30:10 - Finding common ground32:10 - How do you hire for a future need?32:10 - An invaluable lesson from ‘form setters’42:40 - That ‘new car smell’ that hides rotten eggs47:00 - Ideal career growth: It starts with communication to ease people into the right place long term53:10 - Knowing who people are before THEY know who they are and prepping for the interview58:15 - Some final thoughts on interview #1 Resources & Links Metromont LinkedIn Jason Woodard LinkedIn ✅ Avoid hiring mistakes and build stronger teams! Download our free guide: 5 Hiring Mistakes Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 18: Fixing Business Inefficiencies – Optimizing for Growth with Dave Bulloch

TRAITS — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 22:50:25 -0500

Identifying and Eliminating Business Inefficiencies for Sustainable Growth Business inefficiencies can quietly erode profit margins, stall growth, and create unnecessary chaos within organizations. In this episode of our business podcast, Dave Bulloch joins us to break down the root causes of inefficiency and share actionable strategies for turning operational blind spots into competitive advantages. From unexpected market shifts to internal misalignment, businesses face a variety of challenges that can derail even the best-laid plans. Dave, an experienced business leader, walks us through how to anticipate these disruptions, address weaknesses without losing sight of strengths, and optimize for sustainable, long-term growth. We start with Dave’s own story—how his experience in diverse industries shaped his approach to solving complex organizational problems. He dives into the biggest blindspots that catch leaders off guard, including poor process documentation, underdeveloped team structures, and lack of clarity around competitive advantage. One of the key takeaways: growth should not be about fixing every weakness but about doubling down on what you do best. Instead of spreading resources thin, Dave emphasizes strategic focus—investing in the strengths that truly set a business apart. Listeners will also learn how to approach strategic planning in a way that energizes, rather than intimidates, their teams. Dave shares how he helps organizations overcome the common fear of looking too far ahead, using competitive advantage as the guiding star for planning and decision-making. When markets or internal realities demand a pivot, Dave’s advice is clear—go back to your core strengths before deciding on any major changes. He warns against the pitfalls of extreme growth without the necessary operational foundations, illustrating with real-world examples of companies that became lean and efficient after overexpansion. We also explore the role of organizational design in driving performance. Whether it’s redesigning workflows, creating clear accountability, or streamlining communication channels, Dave shows how intentional structure can prevent bottlenecks and boost productivity. By the end of the episode, listeners will have a toolkit of practical strategies to identify inefficiencies, harness their competitive edge, and scale without sacrificing quality or culture. If your business is growing fast—or stuck in a plateau—this conversation will help you identify exactly what’s holding you back and how to move forward with clarity. Show Notes: 3:15 Who is Dave Bulloch 8:45 Keys to handling unforeseen problems in business and economies 10:45 Biggest blindspots for businesses 14:40 Key insights regarding growing companies 16:45 Focus on strengths, not weaknesses! 18:15 Next step for growth strategies; Strategic planning 20:10 What to do when people freak out about looking ahead 22:35 Conducting the perfect pivot? Go back to your competitive advantage 24:15 Pitfalls of extreme growth 27:00 An example of becoming lean and efficient 30:15 What to do if you’re experiencing high growth; know your processes 36:35 Org designs (and redesigns) 40:45 What is missed with growth strategies Episode Resources & Links Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 17: Surviving Business Crises – Fix Hidden Risks Before They Stall Growth with Corey Smith

TRAITS — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 11:26:41 -0500

How Business Crisis Management Strategies Can Save Your Company from Hidden Risks and Unlock Long-Term Growth In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into Business Crisis Management Strategies with seasoned entrepreneur and business advisor, Corey Smith. Corey shares candid insights from his own experience navigating the highs and lows of business, including the unexpected “valleys” that can threaten survival—and how to spot trouble before it’s too late. From the outset, Corey reminds us that no business is immune to challenges. Whether it’s market shifts, financial setbacks, or leadership struggles, problems can escalate quickly if leaders aren’t actively scanning for early warning signs. The conversation kicks off with Corey’s personal account of a significant business downturn that tested his resilience, leadership, and decision-making skills. One of the core themes of the discussion is identifying hidden risks that quietly undermine growth. Corey outlines common “cracks” in organizations—from unclear roles to leadership blind spots—and offers practical tools for detecting and addressing them early. He emphasizes the value of strategic planning, not just as a one-time exercise, but as an ongoing discipline that keeps leaders and teams aligned on long-term goals. Listeners will gain actionable advice on transitioning from “survival mode” to a proactive growth mindset. Corey’s approach involves asking better questions—starting with the simple yet powerful “Maybe we can…”—to reframe challenges as opportunities. This mindset shift, combined with a willingness to adapt and learn, is at the heart of sustainable business success. The episode also tackles the human side of crisis management. Corey shares how collaboration with other business owners, receiving tough love, and maintaining personal well-being all contribute to effective leadership during turbulent times. He reflects on the importance of having a trusted peer network to provide perspective and challenge assumptions. For leaders wondering how to justify the cost of strategic planning, Corey offers compelling evidence: the investment often pays for itself many times over by preventing costly mistakes and ensuring teams are pulling in the same direction. He introduces his own strategic planning process, which helps organizations break down ambitious visions into practical, actionable steps. By the end of the episode, you’ll come away with a renewed understanding of why business crisis management strategies are not just about reacting to problems—they’re about building systems, cultures, and mindsets that make businesses stronger and more adaptable. Corey’s stories and advice serve as a blueprint for leaders determined to not just survive, but thrive, no matter what challenges come their way. Show Notes: 2:15 - Intro to Corey 7:45 - A significant business ‘valley’ 11:45 - How to get through survival mode when things are going pear-shaped in business? 20:35 - The value of asking: “Maybe we can…” 27:30 - What are the patterns for cracks that show up in a business? 30:27 - What is Corey’s strat planning process? 35:20 - How do you justify the cost of strat planning? 37:15 - How do you get your own mindset ‘right’ in the valleys of business? 41:35 - “We lift people up!” 43:15 - The value of tough love from other business owners 45:35 - “My dog can’t help me build my business” Episode Resources & Links RAM Elevators & Lift: https://trustram.com Corey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-smith-66333a84/?originalSubdomain=ca Connect with TRAITS: ???? Connect with us on LinkedIn ???? Follow us on Instagram ???? Read our BLOG ???? Sign up to our Newsletter

Episode 16: Overcoming Leadership Challenges – Scaling Teams Without Over-Promoting with Stephen Smith

TRAITS — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 19:00:00 -0500

How to build stronger leadership teams by avoiding over-promotion pitfalls and focusing on the right development strategies.

Overcoming Leadership Challenges is one of the most critical priorities for any growing organization—and in this episode, Stephen Smith, President & CEO of Strike Group, shares a wealth of hard-earned wisdom on how to do it right. Drawing on years of leading a large, complex organization, Stephen unpacks the leadership lessons that have shaped his approach and the practical steps leaders can take to build stronger, more resilient teams.

From the start, Stephen emphasizes that leadership isn’t about title or power—it’s about accessibility, clarity, and authenticity. He explains why leading from the front builds trust and inspires teams, and how leaders can make themselves truly approachable without losing authority. His “Reach” philosophy breaks down specific ways leaders can connect with their teams on a personal and professional level.

The episode dives deep into a major pitfall for growing companies: over-promoting employees before they’re ready. Stephen shares how “red boxing”—clearly defining leadership boundaries—prevents setting people up for failure, and instead allows them to grow into roles at a sustainable pace. This ties into one of the episode’s central themes: scaling leadership is not about rushing promotions, but about building the skills, confidence, and decision-making ability leaders need to succeed long-term.

One of Stephen’s most actionable tips is the use of a one-page plan to keep teams aligned. By simplifying strategic vision into a clear, concise format, leaders can ensure everyone—from executives to frontline staff—knows where the organization is headed and how they contribute to its success.

He also talks about the importance of vulnerability in leadership, explaining why showing your human side fosters trust and strengthens relationships. Being open about challenges, and even mistakes, creates a culture where team members feel safe to share their own concerns and ideas—driving innovation and engagement.

The conversation covers how to balance ambition with ability when mentoring employees, including the tough conversations leaders sometimes have when aspirations outpace readiness. Stephen provides strategies for managing these situations in a way that preserves morale while still protecting organizational performance.

Authenticity runs as a thread throughout the discussion. For Stephen, leadership isn’t about adopting a persona—it’s about “being who you are” and staying consistent, even under pressure. That authenticity not only builds credibility, it also makes leadership more sustainable and less exhausting over the long haul.

Listeners will walk away with a toolkit for overcoming leadership challenges that includes:

Setting clear leadership pathways to avoid over-promotion
Making leadership accessible without undermining authority
Using strategic planning tools like a one-page plan for clarity and alignment
Building trust through vulnerability and authenticity
Coaching employees through ambition-versus-readiness gaps
Identifying and developing the traits of great managers

Whether you’re a CEO scaling a large company, an HR leader building a leadership pipeline, or a manager wanting to grow into a more effective role, this episode offers practical, experience-backed advice you can implement immediately.

Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction to this episode

2:00 Who is Stephen Smith and what is Strike Group?

7:15 Leadership styles from an expert

15:20 Advantages of leading from the front

16:45 Reach: How does a leader ACTUALLY become accessible

20:00 Some tips on sharing vision with staff

24:25 Preach: Consensus vs. collaboration

25:15 The strength of a 1-page plan

27:15 Teach: creating a management training program

32:10 Helping your people by being open and vulnerable

35:45 How do you handle someone whose aspirations don’t fit their ability?

39:45 Scaling leadership: Do not over promote and “red boxing”

43:45 Characteristics of great potential managers

46:20 Real authenticity as a leader; Be who you are!

48:50 Stephen’s biggest mistake

Episode Resources & Links

Strike website

Strike Group News

Stephen’s Bio

Stephen’s LinkedIn profile

Connect with TRAITS:

Episode 15: Struggling with Leadership Transitions? Unlock Team Success with Strategic Hiring with Chris DeCock

TRAITS — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 13:19:15 -0500

In this powerful two-part episode, Chris Decock shares his journey in the restaurant industry and his people-first leadership philosophy. From building executive teams from frontline staff to fostering long-term employees, Chris discusses the critical role of work ethic, character, and values in team success. He dives into the pros and cons of employee-owned businesses, handling leadership transitions, and why hiring the right people is the key to thriving workplace culture. Plus, he unpacks the truth behind the saying, “people leave managers, not organizations,” offering actionable advice for leaders aiming to unlock their team’s potential.

Show Notes:

Part 1 of interview

2:25 The restaurant industry? This is terrifying! Who is Chris Decock?

5:10 Covid killed talent… How to develop within an organization

8:00 Building an executive team from front line staff

12:40 Developing potential long term employees

16:40 Work ethic, character, and values fall outside of personality!

Part 2 of interview

19:10 Employee owned businesses; strengths and weaknesses

24:40 Handling transition: bring value to employees

27:10 Growing old together as a leadership team

32:40 The strategic advantage of having the right people

36:55 “People leave managers, not organizations”

Episode Resources & Links

–https://hudsonscanadaspub.com/locations/?all=1

–https://www.gretabar.com/

For Greta locations, scroll down to the bottom of the page or hover your mouse over locations on the menu bar at the top of the page

Connect with TRAITS:

Episode 14: The Real Job of Every Manager – Accountability and Mentorship Insights with Carmel Macpherson

TRAITS — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Carmel Macpherson, a seasoned HR leader, explores the real job of every manager: accountability, mentorship, and employee development. With lessons from teaching, parenting, and hands-on management experience, Carmel highlights key skills like spotting “yellow flags” in performance, avoiding the common trap of promoting employees beyond their strengths, and creating safe, honest work environments. This episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders looking to foster growth and unlock true potential in their teams.

Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction to the episode

3:00 Carmel’s personal set of rules with people; positive feedback with people

6:25 An essential lesson from star trek

8:20 Taking lessons from teaching and parenting into management: Know who you’re working with!

14:45 A way to reduce ‘promoting to a lower level of competency’

15:35 The real job of every manager

16:05 Systemic discrimination in terms of personality

20:05 The importance of having managers take full responsibility for their direct reports

23:30 How can managers better understand their direct reports… Some simple tips

26:55 Creating a safe environment for honesty and openness

31:45 How to help managers take full responsibility in their role

42:10 Tips for getting the most out of mentorship

48:48 What most people want more than comfort…

Episode Resources & Links

Related Episodes: More on the 7 Essential Work Traits

Here are additional episodes where Mike dives deeper into the concept of the 7 Essential Work Traits:

https://traits.com/podcast/003/ https://traits.com/podcast/006/

Carmel’s Contact Information:

-Email address carmel@roleaffinity.com

-LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmelmacpherson/?originalSubdomain=au

Connect with TRAITS:

Episode 13: The Value of Remote Teams for (Almost) Every Business with Kayla Baretta

TRAITS — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:32:50 -0400

In this episode, Kayla Baretta, Managing Director at Paper Leaf, opens up about her experience leading a fully remote team and highlights the value of remote teams in boosting business performance. From building a connected company culture remotely to practicing empathetic leadership, Kayla shares her tips for creating high-performing teams, balancing work and life, and the power of clear communication. Tune in to hear her take on navigating the challenges of remote work and keeping teams connected, no matter where they are.

Show Notes

-0:00 Intro to this week’s episode

-1:40 Who is Kayla Baretta and what does Paper-leaf do for clients?

-4:45 The birth and magic of remote teams for Paper-leaf

-7:20 Empathy and its value with culture and clients

-9:50 Some interesting tips: “Pods”, “2 pizza teams”, and building community

-13:40 Debunking a massive myth… connection doesn’t mean being in the same space

-16:10 Addressing elephants tends to lead to deeper connections quickly

-18:40 Other hurdles for going ‘remote’ (onboarding is key)

-20:40 Greatest benefits to growing remote teams

-22:40 Which situations work better or worse for remote workspaces?

-24:10 Some tricks of the trade for bringing people together

-27:50 Strat planning and higher performance within Paper-leaf

-31:10 Some higher performance communication in an organization (it’s so much more than ‘active listening’

-40:25 An unusual interviewing experience and how to connect with Paper-Leaf and Kayla

Episode Resources & Links

Our Communication Training can help you strengthen your team’s connections and boost collaboration.

Guest Information:

Paper Leaf Website: paper-leaf.com

Kayla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-baretta/

Paper Leaf on IG: https://www.instagram.com/paper_leaf/

Paper Leaf on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/paper-leaf-design/

Connect with TRAITS:

Episode 12: Polishing Your Business for Success – Boost Efficiency with Strategic Planning ft Stephen Wallace

TRAITS — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 20:01:00 -0400

In this episode Mark interviews Stephen Wallace, a former engineering firm owner turned consultant, who shares his journey from building a successful business to selling it unexpectedly. Stephen discusses the importance of making a business “shiny”—operating as if it were always ready for sale—even if there are no plans to sell. Through his experience, he emphasizes how strategic planning, well-defined organizational structures, and detailed job descriptions lead to higher performance, efficiency, and ultimately a more attractive company, whether for clients, employees, or potential buyers. Stephen’s insights offer valuable lessons for business owners looking to improve their operations and boost long-term success.

Show notes

2:00 Why did Stephen Wallace create a “Shiny” business?

6:10 What is a strat plan? How does it help create a higher performing business?

7:50 Taking a step back and becoming coordinated

10:20 What is a shiny business?

14:30 Why think through a ‘selling’ exit from your business?

16:00 The greatest benefit to preparing a business for sale

18:20 The value of great job descriptions

21:00 The end result of investing in strategy

25:25 Getting a higher multiple than expected (you’ve gotta do the work!)

29:20 How Stephen helps other businesses

Strategic Planning Resources & Links

We can help develop your Strategic Planning process to improve your organization’s performance and achieve long-term success. Contact us today or markf@concordconsulting.com.

Guest information:

Stephen’s email: stephen.wallace64@gmail.com

Episode 11: The Compare Report – Elevating Your Hiring Decisions with Mike Moreau

TRAITS — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 15:02:13 -0400

In this episode, we’re excited to introduce a game-changing feature that will transform the way you hire. The new Compare Report combines our job modeling expertise with the TRAITS survey to provide deeper insights into candidate-job fit. Discover how this feature helps managers identify key differences, gaps, and opportunities, making the hiring process more accurate and efficient.

Whether you’re recruiting, promoting, or simply ensuring the right fit in your team, this tool offers actionable insights to make smarter decisions. Tune in to learn how this innovative feature can elevate your hiring strategy.

Episode Resources & Links

Elevate your Hiring Decisions – Try TRAITS

Introduction to Communicator Training

Episode 10: The Unicorn Leader - Transforming Government with Business Strategies with Darren Elder

TRAITS — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we sit down with Darren Elder, a unique government leader who’s revolutionizing the way municipalities operate. Darren has implemented business strategies within the public sector, treating government like a business and creating entrepreneurial solutions for his community.

Tune in to discover how Darren’s entrepreneurial mindset is transforming his municipality, boosting performance, and solving community problems. Learn valuable insights on leadership, performance management, and how personality traits play a key role in building successful teams.

Transforming Government with Business Strategies Show Notes :

0:00 Have you ever met a unicorn?

2:30 Being creative with limited capital

4:20 The beginnings of Swiftnet

6:30 Running government like a business and investor

10:45 How does any organization best deal with growth and reaching high performance?

13:00 Moving great people into the right roles; Innovation wherever it exists

15:00 What to look for in higher performers

16:00 Various levels and needs in an organization

17:45 Stop putting reeboks on turtles

20:50 When communicating with people… Start with understanding who they are

23:30 Reducing latency is key!

Resources & Links

Compare Report Launch Event

Introduction to Communicator Training

markf@concordconsulting.com

Swift-Net.ca

Connect with TRAITS:

Episode 9: The Right Fit - Using TRAITS to Match Personalities with Roles with Mike Moreau

TRAITS — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 23:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Mike Moreau, President of Concord Consulting, breaks down how the TRAITS helps organizations get a better handle on personality traits to match personalities with roles. Mike dives into the idea of personality scales, where traits are measured to provide more nuanced insights into how someone might perform in different jobs. Whether it’s project management, sales, or customer service, Mike discusses how these scales can predict behaviour and how the right mix of traits can either boost or hold back job performance. The episode underscores the importance of understanding these dynamics to make smarter hiring decisions and build stronger teams.

Show Notes:

0:00 – Summary of our last interview together (with a focus on how the TRAITS tool is very specific because of it’s ability to provide a scale for each trait)

2:50 – What happens when you hire some who is really social?

6:40 – What happens when you have a director who is more assertive than sociable?

13:40 – Where is a good fit for assertive people in an organization?

15:15 – When is a very assertive person not an ideal fit for a specific role?

16:58 – Let’s switch… What happens with people more social than assertive?

22:48 – A tale of two salespeople

26:30 – Some ways to help organizations with finding an exact fit for positions

Resources & Links

TRAITS Blog

Connect with TRAITS:

Episode 8: Impact of Personality - How We Affect Others at Work with Fraser Engel

TRAITS — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:20:31 -0400

This episode explores he impact of personality in the workplace and how it influences those around us. Fraser Engel shares insights on how self-awareness and objective assessments can help us understand our impact on colleagues and improve communication and teamwork. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing and adapting our behavior to create a more positive and productive work environment.

Show Notes

0:00 Intro to the episode

2:00 Intro to Fraser Engel

3:34 How do our personalities in the workplace affect others around us?

5:00 How do we help people in our workplace understand their impact on others?

7:50 A way to help people see themselves in the mirror (and their impact on others)

12:50 Once people see themselves more clearly… how do we help motivate them to change certain behaviours?

17:08 Help for placing that mirror in front of others in an organization

19:30 Without a capable facilitator for people, the best tools can be wasted: We need training

24:00 The value of mastering the tools we are using in our business

28:10 An example: A “bad fit” to CEO of an organization

30:10 Ways to connect with Fraser

Learn more about the Impact of Personality

Learn More About Assessments tools

Fraser Engel LinkedIn

Mindworks Consulting website

Episode 7: Accelerating Success - The Power of Personality Assessment for Hiring with Sean Lavin

TRAITS — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 17:30:42 -0400

In this episode, Mark interviews Sean Lavin, president of Aircom Instrumentation, about the power of psychometric assessments in creating effective, engaged, and successful teams. Discover how knowing a hire’s personality can greatly help accelerating success and improve communication within your business. Tune in to learn how understanding and aligning people’s traits can transform your company and community.

Show Notes – Accelerating Success

1:25 – Introduction to Sean Lavin, president of Aircom Instrumentation

3:00 – Is it valuable to know ourselves better as managers and leaders?

6:15 – Failure leads to insight in business

9:15 – How can better hiring affect turnover?

10:38 – How can leaving people alone in an ideal role affect turnover?

14:15 – A great story that shows how someone who isn’t a fit can become a fantastic fit in a business

18:05 – Hiring and dating are similar… It’s difficult to see the real person on a first date

22:25 – Knowing a hire’s personality can greatly speed success and helps with communication in a business

27:05 – Self awareness leads to better relationships and communication

29:05 – Discovering company values that already exist in your business

Links

Aircom Instrumentation Ltd. LinkedIn

Sean Lavin LinkedIn

Mark’s email

Episode 6: Psychometric Assessments Myths Debunked: Addressing Objections with Mike Moreau

TRAITS — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:10:19 -0400

Join us for an insightful discussion that addresses common objections to using psychometric assessments in business. Discover how the TRAITS tool developed by Concord Consulting helps individuals and businesses thrive by placing people in roles that match their natural strengths and tendencies. Mike shares his experiences and insights on overcoming skepticism and demonstrating the importance of understanding individual traits to reduce stress and enhance productivity in various organizational contexts.

Show Notes

0:00 Introduction to Mike and TRAITS.

3:50 Objection #1: I don’t need generalizations… I need specific help for my business and the people who work here.

9:55 Objection #2: These tools are too simplistic… Can this really tell me anything?

16:14 Objection #3: Isn’t this simply putting people in boxes?

20:45 What type of company does an objective assessment fit best?

Links

Traits.com

concordconsulting.com

info@traits.com

mike@traits.com

markf@concordconsulting.com

Psychometric Assessment Myths

Episode 5: Scaling Success: Rapid Growth Strategies with Joel Cawthorn

TRAITS — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Mark chats with Joel Cawthorn, Board Director and Former President of Startec Group. Joel shares his experience in managing rapid growth, expanding the company from 100 to 250 employees. He delves into the critical aspects of aligning strategy with culture, overcoming the challenges of scaling systems and processes, and ensuring the right managers are in place. The discussion also highlights the role of the TRAITS tool in identifying and developing leaders, maintaining cultural fit, and effectively managing organizational changes.

Show Notes

0:00 – Intro to episode

1:41 – Introduction to Joel and Startec

3:57 – Challenges of growth in the HR department

5:16 – How were hiring problems solved in a high growth environment?

7:02 – How culture is essential to sustainable growth

7:56 – What is an everyday Maverick?

10:50 – What to do about turnover during high growth

11:40 – How to identify people who aren’t a fit

13:00 – What is the place for psychometric assessments in high growth companies?

17:03 – An example of someone who wasn’t a fit and left happy!

19:25 – The role of a great manager in successful growth

20:52 – What are the personality TRAITS that are essential for managers?

24:40 – Advice for other companies going through faster growth

26:45 – The value of strategic planning to prepare for fast growth

30:20 – Some help for companies looking for more help

Learn More About Tools to Support Rapid Growth

TRAITS: https://www.concordconsulting.com/tools/

Strategic Planning for your organization: https://www.concordconsulting.com/consulting/

From our Library

https://traits.com/how-do-i-find-the-right-balance-in-managing-others/

Guest Links

Website: startec.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startec-refrigeration-compression-&-process-solutions/

Episode 4: The Role of Self-Awareness and Hardwiring in Team Success with Ralph Kison

TRAITS — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 07:00:39 -0400

In this episode of the TRAITS podcast, Mark interviews Ralph Kison, a consultant and executive coach, to explore the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s hardwiring in achieving personal and organizational success. Ralph shares his insights on how psychometric tools like TRAITS can help diagnose and develop individuals’ strengths, leading to more effective team placements and better overall performance. They discuss practical strategies for increasing self-awareness, recognizing blind spots, and aligning personal traits with job roles to create thriving work environments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – Intro to episode

1:32 – Who is Ralph Kison? “I help make people better”

3:10 – Leaders need to know who they are

4:17 – The value of objective tools

11:04 – The gap between our hard wiring and what we find ourselves doing in work

14:05 – The plant analogy

18:43 – Self-awareness = An ability to better understand what is screaming at others around us

23:00 – What are the benefits to our company?

26:26 – What can change un unhealthy culture: A teaser

29:50 – The value of objective assessment for optimal organizational performance

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Guest Links

kison.com

growththroughlearning.com

linkedin.com/in/ralphkison/

Please reference the TRAITS podcast and Ralph will respond to your inquiry

Episode 3: TRAITS - Unleashing Employee Potential with Mike Moreau

TRAITS — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:30:57 -0400

Join Mark in a conversation with Mike Moreau, President of Concord Consulting, as they discuss TRAITS, a psychometric assessment tool designed for the workplace. Mike explains how TRAITS goes beyond categorization, focusing on measuring behaviour on a scale to understand individuals better and unlock the employee potential.

Discover how TRAITS can help you match personality traits with job requirements for optimal performance and organizational success. Listen now to unlock the full potential of your team!

Show Notes:

-0:00 Episode introduction

-00:15 What is TRAITS?

-1:00 Understanding intensity of personality characteristics

-1:56 Moving beyond categorization

-2:38 Benefits of measuring behaviours on a scale

-5:10 Applying TRAITS in the workplace

-7:54 Clarifying misconceptions

-13:25 7 TRAITS that drive work behaviour

-14:39 Customizing Job Roles

-16:56 Avoiding Simplification

-20:00 Post interview comments

Episode Links

linkedin.com/in/mikejmoreau/

traits.com/how-it-works/

Episode 2: Redefining HR: Strategic Leadership and Organizational Transformation with Jennifer Testawich

TRAITS — Tue, 21 May 2024 00:28:30 -0400

In this week’s episode Mark chats with Jennifer Testawich, a visionary HR director who is redefining the role of human resources in modern workplaces. From mentoring leaders to navigating the complexities of workplace diversity, Jennifer provides invaluable insights into transforming HR from a mere administrative function to a pivotal element of strategic organizational success.

Tune in to learn how effective HR practices can lead to real change and why every company needs a proactive HR leader at the table.

Show Notes

0:00 – Interview introduction

1:40 – What is “Women building futures?”

5:20 – Effective HR is about growing leadership in a company

10:10 – How can leaders take more off their plate to better focus on their own roles?

12:24 – There is a place for paper pushing… but HR directors CAN’T be paper pushers

14:55 – How can culture be influenced by HR?

16:45 – Promoting out of success

19:30 – Difficult conversations about money and promotions

22:20 – How to find the right person for a needed role?

24:00 – The importance of creating a perfect job model

25:45 – Getting internal hires right

27:43 – Hiring the perfect FUTURE leader…. Secret sauce to do this well

30:10 – A story of someone who became poison in an organization

34:05 – Jenn commits to talk performance appraisals in a future interview!

Women Building Future

Learn how you can contribute by visiting:

womenbuildingfutures.ca

womenbuildingfutures.ca/about/ways-to-support

Episode 1: Gearing up for growth with Jamie Irvine

TRAITS — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 03:30:54 -0400

In this TRAITS podcast episode Mark interviewed Jamie Irvin, a successful business consultant in the heavy-duty trucking industry and a skilled podcaster. They discussed a wide range of topics including business restructuring, the impact of personality on professional roles, and the importance of strategic employee placement. Additionally, they delved into the costs associated with hiring and rehiring employees, emphasizing the importance of making informed personnel decisions to foster a thriving business environment.

Trailer - TRAITS podcast: Building Higher Performing Organizations

TRAITS — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 20:49:54 -0400

In this first TRAITS podcast episode, Mark shares insights from his experiences and psychology background, emphasizing the importance of aligning job roles with individual personalities and intrinsic desires. He explains that the podcast will help organizations understand intrinsic motivations to enhance job satisfaction and performance.